Ability Ministry recently attended a Christian convention. At this conference we had both an exhibit booth and a “breakout session” we were leading. Leading breakout sessions are fun! I get to speak about things that I am passionate about with people who are interested. Hanging at the exhibit booth can be challenging. It consists of […]
One of the biggest buzz words in the disability community over the past several years has been inclusion. Schools are leading the way with the initiative of getting children with disabilities back in main stream classrooms. But what does it look like in the church? Exclusion Exclusion means that people affected by disability are not […]
We take so many things for granted each day. Without thought, we tie our shoes, brush our hair, and get dressed for the day. We read our Bibles, drive cars, and go to work. Rarely do we think about any of those things. It’s almost an automatic daily response. Are you aware that the act […]
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:14 NIV I would argue that this is one of the cornerstone verses for our ministry. Everyone was created on purpose for a purpose. We are all different and we are all wonderfully made and this image […]
When the caregiver constantly pours themselves out they find themselves empty. Caregivers carry heavy loads that they feel at times only they can carry. This may or may not be a rational belief, but a belief none the less. Thankfully Jesus is not silent on the topic of being tired and burdened. Matthew Chapter 11 […]
At Dutton Farm we have a unique, successful program I refer to as “Reverse Inclusion”. We invite the local elementary school students (typically fourth or fifth graders) to spend a day with us at the farm. The farmers, all adults affected by disability, walk them through a typical day at the farm. They show the […]
Stop me if you have heard these instructions before. Oxygen and the air pressure are always being monitored. In the event of an emergency, an oxygen mask will automatically appear in front of you. To start the flow of oxygen, pull the mask towards you. Place it firmly over your nose and mouth, secure the elastic band […]
I will never forget the first Respite Night we held at First Christian Church in Canton Ohio for multiple reasons. The highlight for me was at the end of the evening when parents came back after their time away. Many came back excited and refreshed sharing stories of getting to go on a real date […]
Many of you probably do not know this, but in my spare time, one of my greatest hobbies and passions has become the sport of weightlifting. Not to be confused with powerlifting, which is the deadlift, bench press, and back squat, weightlifting, or Olympic weightlifting, is the snatch and the clean & jerk. I have […]
Whenever I get a call about a potential resident there are several things that occur. I take all the information that is given, I ask several questions and then I set up a time for an informal interview and tour of our facility. It may be several days before I actually have the opportunity to […]
Because Jesus' table is accessible for everyone...
We desire to see the Church make room for all people affected by disability. To fully participate. To fully partner. To fully lead.
We exist to equip and empower the 25% of the population with a disability, their families, and their churches to become who God has created them to be.
